Sleep like a baby… with these useful tips for hitting the hay

Have you been feeling sluggish lately? It comes to midday and you're already feeling tired? It can be tough for many people to drift off to sleep but here are a few handy tips on how to get a good night's sleep and in turn feel better all around.

 

Keep a sleep schedule 

Try to go to bed and wake up at the same time every morning – even if it's at the weekend (we know, we know). If you keep to the same times every day it will trick your body into relaxing into a better night's sleep.

There is a kink in the rule though: if you simply can't get to sleep within 15 minutes, get up and do something relaxing. There's no point agonising over it as that might just keep you awake longer. 

 

Have a bedtime ritual:

Do the same things at the end of every night to tell your body it's time to wind down. This could include having a shower or bath, reading a book or listening to soothing music. 

 

Keep an eye on what you eat and drink:

Don't go to bed hungry or full. The discomfort of it will probably keep you awake and thinking about it. Be careful with how much you drink as well as it will keep you from midnight trips to the loo. 

 

Get comfy:

A comfortable sleeping arrangement is key when trying to get a good nights sleep. If the room is too bright or too noisy, it will hinder you nodding off. Try black out blinds or ear plugs to get to optimum comfort.

 

Exercise:

Include physical activity in your day time routine as it can help you fall asleep faster as it will tire you out. It doesn't have to be anything too heavy, even a half an hour jog in the park will do.